Cleaning Mistakes You Might Be Making (and How to Fix Them)
Even with the best intentions, cleaning mistakes can do more harm than good. Using the wrong products, skipping critical areas, or applying the wrong techniques may leave behind germs, damage surfaces, or waste valuable time. At Big Big Clean, we’ve seen it all—and we’re here to help you avoid the most common pitfalls in home cleaning. This guide breaks down the top cleaning mistakes homeowners make and offers professional tips on how to fix them for a cleaner, safer space.
1. Using the Wrong Products for the Wrong Surfaces
One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is assuming that all cleaning products are safe for every surface. In reality, the wrong cleaner can strip finishes, discolor materials, or damage appliances.
What to Do Instead:
✔ Use pH-neutral cleaners for hardwood and natural stone surfaces.
✔ Avoid bleach or ammonia on stainless steel, as it can cause pitting.
✔ Always test new products on a small, hidden area before use.
Pro Tip: Read the labels. If a product doesn’t list the surfaces it’s safe for, skip it.
2. Spraying Cleaner Directly onto Surfaces
Spraying directly onto surfaces—especially wood, glass, or electronics—can cause streaking or moisture damage. It also wastes product and can make dust cling to the surface.
What to Do Instead:
✔ Spray cleaner onto a microfiber cloth first, then wipe the surface.
✔ For mirrors or electronics, use a dry or lightly dampened cloth only.
Pro Tip: Microfiber cloths trap dust and reduce the need for harsh chemicals.
3. Using One Cloth for Everything
Using a single cloth throughout the house can spread bacteria from one surface to another—especially from the bathroom to the kitchen.
What to Do Instead:
✔ Color-code your cloths: one color for the bathroom, another for the kitchen, and so on.
✔ Always launder cleaning cloths in hot water after each use.
Pro Tip: Switch to disposable disinfecting wipes for high-touch areas during flu season.
4. Skipping High-Touch and Overlooked Areas
Light switches, remote controls, drawer handles, and baseboards are some of the most forgotten areas during routine cleaning.
What to Do Instead:
✔ Include a high-touch surface checklist in your weekly routine.
✔ Wipe these areas with a disinfectant at least once a week.
Pro Tip: Pay attention to what you touch when moving through a room—those spots need cleaning too.
5. Overusing Disinfectant Without Cleaning First
Disinfectants only work on clean surfaces. Applying them on top of dirt or grease limits their effectiveness.
What to Do Instead:
✔ Clean the surface with soap and water or an all-purpose cleaner first.
✔ Then apply disinfectant, letting it sit for the recommended contact time.
Pro Tip: Check the label—most disinfectants need to sit for 5–10 minutes to kill bacteria and viruses.
6. Neglecting Your Cleaning Tools
Dirty tools clean nothing. Sponges, vacuums, and mops can harbor bacteria and reduce your cleaning power if they aren’t maintained.
What to Do Instead:
✔ Replace sponges every 1–2 weeks.
✔ Clean vacuum filters monthly and replace bags or empty canisters regularly.
✔ Wash mop heads after every use.
Pro Tip: Run sponges through the dishwasher or microwave them (wet!) for one minute to kill germs.
7. Rushing the Job Without a Plan
Cleaning without a plan leads to missed areas and wasted time. Many people clean in random order, causing dirt from one area to land on newly cleaned surfaces.
What to Do Instead:
✔ Clean from top to bottom and left to right to avoid re-contaminating clean surfaces.
✔ Create a room-by-room checklist to stay on track.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget ventilation—open windows when using strong cleaners.
How Big Big Clean Can Help
Avoiding these common cleaning mistakes helps maintain a healthier, longer-lasting living environment. Still, some tasks are best left to the pros. Our team is trained in the safest, most effective cleaning methods for every room and surface in your home.
Whether you’re battling grime buildup, tackling allergens, or simply want peace of mind that it’s done right—we’ve got you covered.
Schedule a Consultation
Visit our website to learn more about our services and to book an appointment. Experience the difference professional cleaning can make in your workspace.
Contact Us
Phone: +1 603 892 1322
Email: [email protected]
Address: 16 Natick Street, Nashua, NH 03063
At Big Big Clean, we believe a spotless home starts with the right techniques. Let us help you avoid cleaning mistakes and achieve the highest standard of clean—safely and efficiently.
